New Duncan Imperials

Vulgar is perhaps too kind a word for the New Duncan Imperials. The gregarious trio--mysteriously named Skipper, Goodtime, and Pigtail Dick--seem interested primarily in oral sex, pop hooks, and good drumming; their live shows, with toxic-waste containers portentously strewn about the stage, party favors for everyone, and lots of noise, are something akin to a drunken binge crossed with an obstacle course. The band's debut four-song EP--including NDI classics "Pensacola 99" (a monster hook cum car crash) and "Jagermeister" (an anthem)--is as puerile and rude as the band itself, with obnoxious spoken intros to each song and amp hum as a primary instrument. Onstage the band wear dumb hats, spray Silly String at each other, and occasionally perform in boxers; they've been known to pass out cookies and milk (in urine-specimen containers). Rhythms are provided by the spectacular Goodtime, who sounds like he drums with a jackhammer. Right now NDI is easily the best live band in Chicago. The Saturday show at Lounge Ax has the band playing late, after the wonderful Vulgar Boatmen, who produced last year's luminous triumph You and Your Sister. Tonight, Edge of the Lookingglass, 62 E. 13th; 939-4017. Saturday, Lounge Ax, 2438 N. Lincoln; 525-6620.

Art accompanying story in printed newspaper (not available in this archive): photo/Marty Perez.